College of Influence

In our LAST episode of season 2 of the podcast, we interview the donut queen herself: Sam Ushiro, AKA @aww.sam. Tune in to hear us talk about how she creates more than just content by building new worlds in each post that is filled with color, time-traveling, and some retro-inspired movie scenes here and there to create absolute content magic.   Guest: Samantha Ushiro Instagram Blog Pinterest Host: Kyle Hjelmeseth Instagram Linkedin G&B Digital Management (Talent Management) For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

Daniela Ramirez, aka @nany, is a blogger and influencer from Venezuela who has strategically made both Latinxs and Americans fall in love with her fun, fashionable, and family-friendly content.   Listen in as her and Kyle discuss the best strategies for growth across diverse cultural audiences, and what it's like to live in her colorful, Miami vibes, world. Guest: Daniela Ramirez Instagram Blog Host: Kyle Hjelmeseth Instagram Linkedin G&B Digital Management (Talent Management) For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In this episode, Kyle chats with hyper creative family influencer Gladys Jimenez of @themotheroverload. Let Gladys inspire you to be a more creative parent in this session packed with a little bit of everything. From creating incredible Halloween photoshoots, juggling family life while working with huge brands, to keeping kids safe from negativity on social media. Guest: Gladys Jimenez Instagram YouTube Blog Host: Kyle Hjelmeseth Instagram Linkedin G&B Digital Management (Talent Management) For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

On today's episode we have minimalist life and style expert @lindseylouie whose easy-going attitude is a breath of fresh air in the influencer world. Her experience both working a 9- 5 on some of the most coveted companies like Google, and her love of content creation as a creative outlet, inspires us to do what we enjoy in life. Guest: Lindsey Louie Instagram Host: Kyle Hjelmeseth Instagram Linkedin G&B Digital Management (Talent Management) For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In this podcast, Kyle speaks with Neely Moldovan, aka @neelykins, a blogger and influencer who has been part of the Dallas blogging scene for a few years now. From her quarter-life crisis chronicles to her actual more self-care and family-oriented content, Neely keeps it real for her community speaking about her struggles with postpartum depression and strong political opinions, but always with a coffee in hand.   Guest: Neely Moldovan Instagram Blog Facebook Host: Kyle Hjelmeseth Instagram Linkedin G&B Digital Management (Talent Management) For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

This podcast turns into a vibrant, happy party as Kyle interviews influencer and creator Meredith Staggers, aka @cakeandconfetti. Tune in to learn from her experiences, from everything about creating amazing sets to learning the business through sports management and how all these wrapped into a colorful and vibrant package to feel like it's a party every day! Guest: Meredith Staggers Instagram Blog Host: Kyle Hjelmeseth Instagram Linkedin G&B Digital Management (Talent Management) For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In today's episode Kyle interviews Pasadena blogger and influencer, Celeste Wright, who stumbled into her influencer business as a result of her ventures as an entrepreneur, and has since cultivated a loyal community of followers that have grown alongside her beautiful family.    Join us in this conversation about balancing life, business tips, and a whole lot of golden nuggets on how to engage with your audience, and much more!   Guest: Celeste Wright Instagram Blog Host: Kyle Hjelmeseth Instagram Linkedin G&B Digital Management (Talent Management) For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

Want to know how you can become a travel influencer and experience life to the fullest? Find out in today’s episode of the College of Influence podcast, where we talk with Lindsay Myers, creator of @getlostwithlindsay. Let Lindsay show you that you don’t need to pay top price to experience all that life has to offer. Guest: Lindsay Myers Instagram Blog Host: Kyle Hjelmeseth Instagram Linkedin G&B Digital Management (Talent Management) For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

Karla Lu is a businesswoman and entrepreneur, turned content creator. In today's episode she talks with host, Kyle Hjelmeseth, about how her entrepreneurial mindset and hard-working attitude got her to be the successful businesswoman she is now. Guest: Karla Lu Instagram Shop Polymath Mom Host: Kyle Hjelmeseth Instagram Linkedin G&B Digital Management (Talent Management) For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In this episode, we speak with Adaleta Avdić, a blogger, influencer, and YouTuber known for her beauty product reviews and funny take on life. Learn how to make important decisions and how syndicating your content can build a loyal community throughout different platforms.   Guest: Adaleta Avdić Instagram YouTube Get an Adaatude Podcast Blog For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In this episode Kyle interviews the talented Cogey, who can make us laugh and stare in awe at magnificently created vintage photography, videos, and Reels used for her famous astrological memes. She talks about huge election campaign with Instagram, her journey out of an abusive marriage, and how creating her social media persona based on the things she loves helped her find her own value.   Guest: Cogey Instagram cogey.com For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In this episode, we talk to Jhánneu Roberts, a leader in the conversation about using your influence to educate and make sustainability inclusive. Tune in to learn how an intentional and low-impact life gave her a bigger purpose and a mission to teach people to be better through helping the environment and living an intentional life. Guest: Jhánneu Roberts Instagram YouTube Facebook For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In today's episode, Kyle has a fun conversation with one of his favorite Texas micro-influencers, Meg Owen of @mego, an established beauty and lifestyle blogger from Houston, who keeps it real and true to her niche. Enjoy this friendly chat with this charismatic, funny, and overall real woman, who not only teaches you how to get attainable makeup looks, but also inspires with her empathy towards others. Guest: Kimberly Dawn Instagram YouTube Official Website For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In today's episode, we talk to Laura Hunt from @laurahuntstyle, an incredibly talented stylist, and entrepreneurial badass who creates anything she sets her mind to. She is responsible for TV segments, set styling, fashion show interviews, massive marketing events and reinventing herself in many ways.    Even before she was a digital influencer, she was a great influence and inspiration for many, and in many ways started host Kyle down his path. Dive in to hear her story. Guest: Laura Hunt instagram.com/laurahuntstyle/ linkedin.com/in/laurahuntstyle/ For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In this podcast, we speak to one of the greatest OG bloggers, Rachel Iwanyszyn of @jaglever. We dig in with how Rachel got started, has found longevity in the game of influence, her love for Dr. Martens, and her unique artsy perspective when creating content.    Find out how keeping your style is key for not only making it in this business but also to just enjoy your life to the fullest. Guest: Rachel Iwanyszyn instagram.com/jaglever jaglever.com For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In this podcast episode, we chat with Haely White, one half of the hilarious “Don’t Call Me Mommy” duo (with @gutstadt) about how she discovered comedy was her calling, her break in social media, and how life just takes you where you need to go to learn in the process.    Guest: Haely White instagram.com/haelywhite/ haelywhite.com/ dcmm.tv/ For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In this episode, we chat with Michelle Hsu, creator of @astoldbymichelle on everything from her book blogging days to her amazing take on home decor, and new found love for Reels, TikTok, and motherhood. Tune in for Michelle's tell-all on the influencer business and her unique content creation methods. Guest: Michelle Hsu instagram.com/astoldbymichelle astoldbymichelle.com For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

Joining the podcast today is Jaqi Clements, the mother of superstar Clements twins, Ava and Leah, who have taken the internet world by storm. In this episode, Jaqi tells us all about what it was like for her family when the girls became influencers, and what they have learned from their family’s struggles after a harrowing battle with cancer.    A powerful conversation, full of wisdom for aspiring influencers, and wisdom for life. Do not miss this episode!   Guest: Jaqi Clements instagram.com/jaqi_m_clements/ instagram.com/clementstwins/ instagram.com/kevin_r_clements/ instagram.com/cut2thischase/ For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

Joining Kyle today is actor, model, comedian, influencer, and even true-crime podcast producer Samantha Gutstadt. What doesn't she do!? Anything she doesn’t want to! Sam is one serious comedian with a head for business and is ready to tell us all about her journey from playing professional tennis in Canada to movie thrillers, and finally, to your phone’s screen with her funny sketches on social media as an influencer. Guest: Samantha Gutstadt instagram.com/gutstadt/ samsomuch.com/ For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

On today's episode we catch up with JaNess Strickland, the proud mother of Madison Jade, Texas’ own bubbly influencer who is unapologetically herself and we wouldn't want it any other way! “We allow Madison to be herself, and we do it so she knows that her voice matters, what she has to say matters, and who she is matters,” JaNess says when talking about how it is to work with her little daughter in creating super fun content that has made Madison viral and a rising star. With a different upbringing than other kids, Madison is allowed to express herself in any way she finds necessary. This is something that she has agreed on with her husband; “Madison has a vote in the things we do, and we ask her how she feels about things, especially when it comes to her social media presence.” Find out more about Madison's life through the eyes of her mother JaNess, and dig into the story of what it's like to be the mom to a six year influencer! Guest: JaNess Strickland Instagram Link to YouTube For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In our new episode, we interview Flashes of Style creator, Bonnie Barton. With her incredible style and positive attitude, she has made everybody fall in love with the content she creates. She hears from a lot of women about how her blog has had a positive influence on them. "I feel that this year more than ever, everyone is very aware of quarantine weight and stuff like that. So I feel that everyone can use the extra affirmations, inspiration, and just be kinder to ourselves because this year we've all been dealing with so much."   Join us as Bonnie shares her human struggles and how she overcame them to inspire others to do the same.   Guest: Bonnie Barton instagram.com/flashesofstyle flashesofstyle.com For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

On today's podcast we chat with Mandy Cox, the creator of the Momma Mandy lifestyle blog is a Florida blogger who has made a loyal community fall in love with her entire family and life. In this podcast, she shares all of her struggles and wins in this marathon called life. Her success rises due to her authenticity, hard work, a loving family, and strong faith. Guest: Mandy Cox instagram.com/mommamandyblog mommamandy.com For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In today's episode of the podcast, Kyle interviews Whitney Leigh Morris, designer, author and creative mind behind the famous Tiny Canal Cottage. With dreamy photos of her beautiful house at Venice Beach, Whitney has created a very successful business and tells everyone what it’s like to live in her 400 sq ft home with her loving husband, her five-year-old, two of the cutest beagles, and a baby on the way. Join us as we learn about growing a brand and supporting her family through her content creation. Each of her photos is a tiny, beautiful dream, so it's no wonder she has built an incredible community that hangs on every one of her inspirations! Guest: Whitney Leigh Morris instagram.com/whitneyleighmorris tinycanalcottage.com Book: Small Space Style For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

In today's episode, Kyle has a fun conversation with one of his favorite Texas micro-influencers, Meg Owen of @mego, an established beauty and lifestyle blogger from Houston, who keeps it real and true to her niche. Enjoy this friendly chat with this charismatic, funny, and overall real woman, who not only teaches you how to get attainable makeup looks, but also inspires with her empathy towards others. Meg, being the amazing teacher that she is, gave us a formula that she uses to create a successful strategy for her business that you can use in yours: Guest: Megan Owen instagram.com/mego http://megoonthego.com/ For more information on today's episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com/blog-podcast   ** Subscribe and unlock over 50 lessons on everything you need to know to grow your following, get brand deals and find success as an influencer at collegeofinfluence.com.  Why College of Influence? We’ve built a team of influencers, agents, lawyers, accountants, and artists, to provide you with the best resources and make sure each lesson will help you grow your audience and turn your passion into profits!

This week we had one of the most insightful conversations of this entire season with friend, and business leader Kelly Howard, CEO of EightSixtySouth. Kelly  served as Post+Beam’s West Coast Director for several years, Kelly acquired the company in October 2016 and has since led the company through a full rebrand - introducing the new EightSixtySouth in 2017. The established firm handles PR for some of the biggest names in the game like Modibodi, Moroccanoil, Sephora, Facebook, Make Up Forever, W Hotels, and many others. This interview is filled with golden nuggets and we tried our best to list the biggest takeaways below, but we suggest you grab a notebook, listen to the full episode and take all the notes you can! Guest: Kelly Howard eightsixtysouth.com/ linkedin.com/in/kellylynn3/ ** For the access to our learning community and lessons our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com **

If you’ve heard interviews and other introductions to David Meltzer in the past, he always gets described with more or less the same adjectives: Legend, idol, inspiration, innovator, etc. But we decided that we wanted to give David the chance to introduce himself in his own words-- how he feels the world should know him. On the podcast this week we had a quick, but incredibly insightful talk with a person that has built the pillars of the talent management industry. He’s the Co-Founder of Sports 1 Marketing and formerly served as CEO of the renowned Leigh Steinberg Sports & Entertainment agency, which was the inspiration for the movie Jerry Maguire! He’s a best seller author, speaker, coach, and incredibly humble; we’re talking about the one and only David Meltzer. Listen in to hear how David would give his own introduction, and many insightful nuggets of his wisdom that will help take your business and relationships to new levels. Guest: David Meltzer instagram.com/davidmeltzer dmeltzer.com sports1marketing.com ** For the access to our learning community and lessons our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com **

Before Angela Kim of Mommy Diary started her blogging life, she was a full-time mom juggling her own desires and a budding family. She was teaching, building on her dreams, but at the young age of 24 that all changed quickly, leading to one of the lowest points in her life. Fast forward almost 16 years from that point, we sit down with Angela who has since become one of the most successful full time bloggers, and now podcasters, today. From motherhood to iconic fashion content-- you name it, she’s done it all. Join us for this deeply interesting conversation, with many personal and professional insights, directly from a working mother/wife/icon, and the many more hats she wears to keep her community and family engaged. Guest: Angela Kim instagram.com/mommydiary/ mommy-diary.com/ Podcast ** For the access to our learning community and lessons our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com **

Shelcy and Christy Joseph are a fashionable and stylish duo behind NYCxClothes. Born in Haiti but now locals of New York, they created a fashion and lifestyle platform turned into a community that encourages women from all cultures to live up to their full potentials and to believe in their dreams. The vibrant duo brings everything they touch to life and generate content with flawless aesthetics, turning their account into instant fashion goals. Recently, we sat down with Shelcy Joseph to discuss her perspective as a rising star influencer, a creative force during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a strong voice for diversity, equity and inclusion across the influencer industry. Quotations have been edited for clarity.   Guest: Shelcy Joseph instagram.com/nycxclothes Blog: link  Dear Brands: link [ For the access to our learning community and lessons our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com ]

University of Southern California student and micro-influencer Chloe Miller is known for her beauty and fashion content. However, since the global coronavirus pandemic hit earlier this year, Chloe has branched outside her niche to advocate for social distancing and the importance of keeping one another safe. This mixing of desperate content might scare some influencers, but Chloe believes her willingness to break molds makes her unique—and she hopes more influencers follow suit. Recently, we sat down with Chloe (@chloetessmiller) to discuss her experiences as both a college student and micro-influencer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Guest: Chloe Miller Instagram: instagram.com/chloetessmiller/ Blog: https://bychloetess.com/ COI Interview: [ For the access to our learning community and lessons our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com ]

In 2007, Cole Zucker made what might have seemed like a risky decision. After graduating college, he purchased a one-way ticket to Shanghai, China, checked into a hostel, and started searching for work.   This life-altering experience eventually led to Cole co-founding Green Creative, a multi-million dollar commercial LED lighting company. He’s since exited Green Creative and started Hey Hero, a platform that enables influencers to offer personalized, expert advice to their followers. In the latest episode of College of Influence’s podcast, we talked with Cole about how he started Green Creative, lessons he discovered along the way, and how influencers can benefit from his learnings. Guest: Cole Zucker More on Cole Zucker: https://fortune.com/2018/04/22/cole-zucker-green-creative-lighting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colezucker/ Sign up to join Hey Hero: https://heyhero.co/ [ For the access to our learning community and lessons our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com ]

The podcast returns for our second semester, at a turning point in history. In this episode Kyle talks with Marwa Atik, influencer and entrepreneur on the topic of identity at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.   As of the podcasts' posting date most of the United States is still under shelter in place orders, and recommendations to wear personal protective equipment, like masks, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Masks, in particular, have the effect of covering one’s identity, something that is such a driving force in American culture. As a hijab wearing Muslim-American woman, and founder of Vela Scarves, Marwa gives her insight into what we can learn about identity from covered Muslims, embracing a part of our new normal that has been the “normal” for many Muslims throughout the world for centuries. Listen to the College of Influence episode to hear all of Marwa’s personal story about her decision to wear the hijab, how identity isn’t solely tied to appearance, and her thoughtful tips for embracing the mask. Note: This interview includes the express views of Marwa Atik, speaking from her personal experiences. The host and guest are not intending a comparison of PPE masks to the hijab, or any other traditional covering, however we are finding a shared perspective and food for thought moment. Guest: Marwa Atik Blog: marwaatik.com Instagram: instagram.com/marwaatik Vela Scarves: velascarves.com  [ For the access to our learning community and lessons our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com ]

Taking this week's pop quiz is the Director of Community at Collectively, Anna Stern. Anna tackles Instagram's recent headline making choice to remove some digitally altered photos from the app, which is affecting influencers who...you guessed it, use tools like Photoshop to edit their imagery.   According to Facebook / Instagram, this is part of their effort to curb fake news (amongst other things), but...what do you think? Do you care? Does it really matter? As with all pop quizzes we take a current event in the world of social media, dissect a recent article, and let the guest weigh in on the subject — good, bad or indifferent. Reference Articles: https://www.techradar.com/news/instagram-is-policing-photoshopped-images-to-curb-the-spread-of-fake-news Guest: Anna Stern collectivelyinc.com linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-stern-58364036/ Share this episode with your followers, and visit collegeofinfluence.com to sound off on the subject in the comments!

In our Fall / Winter semester finale, Kyle talks with Anna Stern of Collectively to discuss something we all what to know—what agencies are looking for when matching influencers with brands.   As Director of the Community team at Collectively, a full-service strategy agency that specializes in influencer marketing, Anna’s expertise in the field spans to the early days of the industry—when most campaigns included long-form blog content and a tweet. Today, she helps advocate, support, and provide structure for Collectively’s network of over 20,000 influencers ranging from fashion bloggers to Twitch gamers.   Listen to the College of Influence episode to hear all of Anna’s tips for making yourself more marketable.  Guest: Anna Stern collectivelyinc.com Instagram: instagram.com/collectivelyinc Sign-up for the Collectively Influencer Community: https://collectivelyinc.com/influencers/apply [For the best lessons from our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com]

Taking this week's pop quiz is our master of sales, Bobby Bilina from talent management group, God & Beauty. Bobby discusses TikTok's huge surge in 2019, overtaking Instagram in number of monthly active users. Instagram is coming out with their own app, called Reels, in response. So...is it too late to fight the tide? Is everyone TikTok'ing? Or just like an alarm clock, is time winding down on the app's popularity, because with Reels on it's heels as Bobby put it, "WHY LEAVE THE APP!?"   Do you care? Does it really matter? As with all pop quizzes we take a current event in the world of social media, dissect a recent article, and let the guest weigh in on the subject — good, bad or indifferent. Reference Articles: https://www.newsweek.com/instagram-reels-competes-tiktok-1472701 Guest: Bobby Bilina godandbeauty.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-bilina-2804924b/ Share this episode with your followers, and visit collegeofinfluence.com to sound off on the subject in the comments!

For many people, when they hear the term "sales" they immediately have a bad reaction: fake smiles, aggressive tactics, and over-exaggerated promises. For Bobby Bilina, God & Beauty’s Director of Sales and co-host of the College of Influence podcast, sales is actually all about taking care of people—and that’s the differentiator in what makes him great at landing deals for his influencer clients. In the latest episode of the College of Influence podcast, Bobby and Kyle discuss the many ins-and-outs of negotiating and key strategies to finding success with it as an influencer. For all of Bobby's insight into setting up negotiations for successfully landing program after program listen in! Guest: Bobby Bilina godandbeauty.com linkedin.com/in/bobby-bilina-2804924b/ [For the best lessons from our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com]

Taking this week's pop quiz is creative visionary illustrator Amber Day (check her designs on collegeofinfluence.com!). Amber discusses the effect that augmented reality (AR) could have when built into the most dominant social media platform of the moment, Instagram. Essentially Instagram is building filters, in collaboration with fashion designers, to make their clothing come to life on screen. Are we inherently going to be pushed to spend more time on our devices than we already do?! Do you care? Does it really matter? As with all pop quizzes we take a current event in the world of social media, dissect a recent article, and let the guest weigh in on the subject — good, bad or indifferent. Reference Articles: AR filters for clothing come to Instagram Chanel Opens Holiday Ski Lodge In String Of Experiential Events Guest: Amber Day heyamberday.com Instagram: instagram.com/amberdaymakesstuff Share this episode with your followers, and visit collegeofinfluence.com to sound off on the subject in the comments!

In the latest episode of College of Influence we get into the nature of creativity with illustrator and curious creative Amber Day. Amber is the designer behind all of the incredible illustration on the College of Influence website, but her story spans many years (and continents) in the pursuit of artistic freedom. From Chanel to Nordstrom, the Guardian UK to the Washington Post...brands, newspapers, dining destinations and more...Amber's work has truly been featured worldwide. Listen in as Amber breaks down her process and how living the biggest life outside the grid can help make the content you bring to your community bigger and more beautiful. For all of Amber's insight into the nature of creative work, check out the full episode. Guest: Amber Day www.heyamberday.com [For the best lessons from our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com]

Taking this week's pop quiz is our podcast producer, and host of hit Millennials Don't Suck, Ari Andersen. Ari discusses the notion that overthinking content is going to be the death of social platforms, like Instagram. Recently Eva Chen, Director of Fashion Partnerships at Instagram, gave an interview speaking to the fact that people spend way too much time curating their imagery and captions. The more thought put into a post, the less organic it feels. Are you one of the ones putting hours of work into something that will only be live for a day? Do you care? Does it really matter? As with all pop quizzes we take a current event in the world of social media, dissect a recent article, and let the guest weigh in on the subject — good, bad or indifferent. Reference Articles: 'Overthinking is the death of Instagram' – The secrets of an effective social campaign, according to Instagram director Guest: Ari Andersen Podcast Network: curiousaud.io/ Instagram: instagram.com/ari.andersen/ Millennials Don't Suck: millennialsdontsuck.com/ Share this episode with your followers, and visit collegeofinfluence.com to sound off on the subject in the comments!

In the latest episode of the College of Influence’s own podcast, we dive into what it takes to have a successful podcast with Ari Anderson, podcast producer and co-founder of Curious Audio. After starting his career as an international policy consultant, Ari decided to start his own podcast with a friend called Millennials Don’t Suck, which set out as a side project to disprove the prevailing assumption that millennials are lazy and narcissistic. One hundred episodes and hundreds of thousands of downloads later, Ari’s moved into podcasting full-time and helps interested parties (including College of Influence!) find their voice and launch their own programming. For all of Ari’s wise words, check out the full episode, but here’s what he had to say about what you should consider before diving into podcasting headfirst. Guest: Ari Andersen Podcast Network: curiousaud.io/ Instagram: instagram.com/ari.andersen/ Millennials Don't Suck: millennialsdontsuck.com/ [For the best lessons from our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com]

Taking this week's pop quiz is YouTube star David Hoffmann of David's Been Here. David discusses the attitude toward, and the attitude of, travel bloggers. With influencers dominating travel topics, the expectation of free stays, free food and special treatment has soured relationships with tourism boards world wide. David gives his expert two cents on where vloggers and bloggers go wrong when traveling the world, especially with tourism and hospitality partners. Do you care? Does it really matter? As with all pop quizzes we take a current event in the world of social media, dissect a recent article, and let the guest weigh in on the subject — good, bad or indifferent. Reference Articles: Inside the Complicated World of the Instagram Traveler Podcast: Is Instagram Ruining Travel (with @prettylittlefawn) Guest: David Hoffmann YouTube: youtube.com/user/davidsbeenhere Instagram: instagram.com/davidsbeenhere blog: davidsbeenhere.com Share this episode with your followers, and visit collegeofinfluence.com to sound off on the subject in the comments!

It’s hard to look at the job David Hoffmann has created for himself and not feel incredibly jealous—after all, he’s a professional tourist, sharing new places, foods, and experiences with his hundreds of thousands of followers each day. But even though he’s known today or his worldwide antics, that wasn’t always the case. In the latest episode of College of Influence’s podcast, David shares how his passion for travel was ignited, how he grew a steady revenue stream on YouTube, and how his content creation process has evolved alongside his platforms. Are you looking to diversify your revenue streams on social? Do you want build a presence for yourself on YouTube? With over 450,000 subscribers, David has some secrets to share. Guest: David Hoffmann YouTube: youtube.com/user/davidsbeenhere Instagram: instagram.com/davidsbeenhere Blog: davidsbeenhere.com [For the best lessons from our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com]

Taking this week's pop quiz is Bobby Bilina, Director of Sales at God & Beauty, the leading influencer management firm. Bobby goes in on the topic of bullying, and off on Instagram's newer feature that allows users to restrict comments. The main drive behind this feature is to give users a weapon to fight back against bullying, although passively, by making the comment only seen by the user who left the comment...instead of by everyone. Do you care? Does it really matter? As with all pop quizzes we take a current event in the world of social media, dissect a recent article, and let the guest weigh in on the subject — good, bad or indifferent. Reference Articles: Instagram Now Lets You Control Your Bully's Comments Cyberbullying experts react to Instagram's new anti-bullying Restrict feature Share this episode with your followers, and visit collegeofinfluence.com to sound off on the subject in the comments! Guest: Bobby Bilina godandbeauty.com linkedin.com/in/bobby-bilina-2804924b For more helpful resources like today’s episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com.

You want to work with a dream brand as a partner, but how do you start that conversation, and get a gig? How to land a deal is really driven by ROI, or Return on Investment, and how you explain ROI to companies you want to develop a business relationship with. In the latest episode of the College of Influence podcast, the master guru of business development, Bobby Bilina (Director of Sales for talent firm God & Beauty) breaks down what every business wants to hear...where their money is going, and how they're going to make their investment in a partnership with you back, and then some. Learn the right type of language to land that deal! Guest: Bobby Bilina godandbeauty.com linkedin.com/in/bobby-bilina-2804924b [For the best lessons from our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com]

Taking this week's pop quiz is Courtney Halverson of blog Pretty Little Fawn, on the topic of influencers RUINING travel for everyone else. When an influencer shares their travel adventure on social does it make it less likely someone will go to that destination, simply because they've seen all the interesting points now thanks to the influencer? When someone travels based on an influencer's recommendation will they be disappointed if they can't get the same type of photo they saw the influencer post? Does it really matter? As with all pop quizzes we take a current event in the world of social media, dissect a recent article, and let the guest weigh in on the subject — good, bad or indifferent. Reference Articles:  Have Instagram Influencers Ruined Travel For An Entire Generation? This Instagram Influencer Asks Strangers to Kiss Her in Front of Famous Landmarks A pilot and Instagram influencer with 500000 followers shares her 8 best travel tips Share this episode with your followers, and visit collegeofinfluence.com to sound off on the subject in the comments! Guest: Courtney Halverson, of Pretty Little Fawn Blog: prettylittlefawn.com Instagram: instagram.com/prettylittlefawn New product: https://bymilaner.com/pages/pretty-little-fawn For more helpful resources like today’s episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com.

Growing up, Courtney Halverson’s parents kept a tight lid on her access to the Internet, but as her acting career began to take off, it was important for her to grow an online presence. From there, she dug deeper into the social media world to find the good, the bad, and the ugly.  In the latest episode of the College of Influence podcast, the LA blogger and actress shares her journey from navigating the world of auditions as a teenager to becoming a masterful content creator, and teaches how to build lasting relationships (friendships) with brand partners. Guest: Courtney Halverson blog: prettylittlefawn.com instagram.com/prettylittlefawn latest collection: https://bymilaner.com/pages/pretty-little-fawn [For the best lessons from our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com]

Taking this week's pop quiz is Jason Brooks, Esq. of AltView Law Group, on the topic of Instagram removing the Following tab. The feature was controversial as it let you see what content was being liked by others on the platform, leading to plenty of relationship fights for obvious reasons. Did you enjoy seeing what others were interacting with on the platform? Did the feature cause you any personal headaches? Do you care? As with all pop quizzes we take a current event in the world of social media, dissect a recent article, and let the guest weigh in on the subject — good, bad or indifferent. Reference Articles:  Instagram Scraps Its Following Tab, So Now You Can Like Photos Judgement-Free Instagram is getting rid of the feature that let you see what everyone else was liking Share this episode with your followers, and visit collegeofinfluence.com to sound off on the subject in the comments! Guest: Jason Brooks, Esq. of AltView Law Group. AltView Law Group: http://altviewlawgroup.com/ AltView Law Group Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aVlgLLP/ For more helpful resources like today’s episode, visit collegeofinfluence.com.

Startling fact: 70-80% of influencer talent out at large are not represented by legal counsel or a talent manager, those who can help protect the influencers’ interest during contract negotiation. In the latest episode of College of Influence’s podcast business and entertainment lawyer Jason Brooks, ESQ,. of Altview Law Group, breaks down the big things to look out for in each influencer campaign contract, and why. This is some of the most important listening you can do, especially if you’re an independent influencer! Jason's help in the arena of contracts formed the basis of what we’ve created at College of Influence, so far as dedicating an entire area of the site to the topic. Guest: Jason Brooks, ESQ. http://altviewlawgroup.com/ https://lawyers.justia.com/lawyer/jason-brooks-853524 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonwbrooks/ [For the best lessons from our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com]

Taking this week’s College of Influence Pop Quiz is Tommy Lei of MYBELONGING. YouTube gets fined by the FCC to the tune of $170M for allowing for sponsored content targeting kids to influence watching habits of children without having more rules in place to protect kids from advertising. This ruling may have a domino effect that uppends what everyone is posting, in terms of sponsored content. Do you think more disclosure rules are necessary, or will they hurt your business? Do you care? As with all pop quizzes we take a current event in the world of social media, dissect a recent article, and let the guest weigh in on the subject — good, bad or indifferent. Share this episode with your followers, and visit collegeofinfluence.com to sound off on the subject in the comments! Resources: Google Fined $170M; Will YouTube Creators Pay the Ultimate Price? Complaint filed against a popular toy channel on YouTube could lead to big ad changes  Guest: Tommy Lei starred in our recent episode, Staying True to Your Vision. His story is singular, powerful, and full of quotable wisdom…a true must listen! More on Tommy Lei, founder of MYBELONGING: Tommy's blog, mybelonging.com Tommy's Instagram account: instagram.com/mybelonging

Before becoming the force behind MYBELONGING, blogger and styleteller Tommy Lei was a self-described “exhausted publicist." Now Tommy has worked with traveled the world on behalf of a luxury portfolio of clientele. In the latest episode of College of Influence’s podcast, Tommy delves into the full story behind his brand—from how he reconciled his intersectional identity with his conservative Chinese upbringing, to how his unique sense of style, once seen as a risk by many brands, remains his strongest asset today.  Guest: Tommy Lei www.mybelonging.com instagram.com/mybelonging [For the best lessons from our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com]

Taking this week’s College of Influence Pop Quiz is Stephanie Liu Hjelmeseth of Honey & Silk. With Instagram’s plan to hide likes rolling out in various countries around the world we ask the question, as an influencer will Instagram hiding likes help or hurt your business? Do you care? As with all pop quizzes we take a current event in the world of social media, dissect a recent article, and let the guest weigh in on the subject — good, bad or indifferent. Share this episode with your followers, and visit collegeofinfluence.com to sound off on the subject in the comments! Resources: Nicki Minaj Says She Won't Post On Instagram Anymore After They Remove Likes Here's what your Instagram posts will look like without 'likes' Will Instagram’s Plan to Hide Likes Hurt Your Business? Guest: Stephanie Liu Hjelmeseth was a guest on our recent episode, Evolving Your Personal Brand through Life Changes. Her story is moving, deep, and insightful…a true must listen! More on Stephanie Liu Hjelmeseth, founder of Honey & Silk. Stephanie's blog, honeynsilk.com Stephanie's Instagram account: instagram.com/honeynsilk

With a one year old tyke on her hip, Stephanie Liu Hjelmeseth of Honey & Silk shoots for top lifestyle and luxury brands around the globe. From Chanel to Kim Kardashian West’s new line, brands clamor for her effortless and yet elevated appeal. This week, we learn how to evolve your brand through life's many changes, and get comfortable with your community of followers changing over time. Guest: Stephanie Liu Hjelmeseth www.honeynsilk.com instagram.com/honeynsilk [For the best lessons from our favorite College of Influence interviews and more, sign up at collegeofinfluence.com]